Latest News and Events

Care in Later Life

A
report from the National Audit Office (NAO) has
cast the spotlight on the cost of delayed discharges from hospital for older
people. The report estimates that over the past two years there has been an
increase of 31% in the number of ‘bed block’ days taken up by elderly people
whose care would be better continued in their own homes or in the community.
This equates to some 1.15 million ‘bed days’ although the NAO estimates that
the true figure could be nearer 2.7 million days.
Interestingly, the
report also highlights the cost in terms of patients own well-being. It is
estimated that for every day which an older person spent in hospital, they lose
5% of muscle strength. As a result, unnecessary hospital stays may quickly lead
to a loss of “mobility and the ability to do everyday
tasks such as bathing and dressing.” Early discharge to home or community care
is therefore in patients best interests as it increases their chances of
remaining independent for longer.


Whether being cared for
at home or moving into a care environment, it is important that individuals
(and those who are responsible for their well-being) take time to understand
what help is available and to plan the financing of a care package.
Interestingly a recent Daily Telegraph article highlighted the way in which the
gap in the cost of provision of full-time care at home and opting for living
within a care home environment is closing.
If you’re looking for advice on managing
the capital of care home residents, or if your situation has changed and you
may therefore need to review your existing investment portfolio, contact
Beckworth by using one of the links on our website.